Pennsauken Man Hid Dad’s Death to Get Checks

Federal prosecutors say a southern New Jersey man hid his father's death from authorities for 22 years so he could keep receiving his dad's Social Security payments.

Michael Shelton of Pennsauken pleaded guilty Monday to a complaint charging him with theft of government funds. Overall, he admitted stealing about $205,000.

The 65-year-old Shelton faces up to 10 years in prison when he's sentenced Aug. 1.

When his father died in March 1990, Shelton purposely failed to notify the Social Security Administration. The agency discovered the death last June and learned the deceased was receiving $977 in monthly benefits.

Prosecutors say Shelton arranged for the checks to be direct deposited into a bank account in his father's name. He then occasionally withdrew funds to pay for personal expenses.